Dr Knight, Head of the University’s School of Biological and
Marine Sciences, said:

“This exhibition is a
great opportunity to make more people aware of our research, and the native
dark honey bee in general. It is also a chance for us to reach out to
beekeepers across the South West and beyond, whose help is critical to the
success of our project. The aim is to work in partnership with beekeepers to
characterise our own biodiversity and to raise awareness of the threats from continental
imports, working together to find solutions that do not depend on them."

“Native species are an
important element of a region’s ecology because they adapt to their
surroundings and any particular challenges they pose. One of the key threats
from imports is the spread of harmful novel pathogens which natives often
struggle to fight. It is a delicate balance but one we need to strike if we are
to maintain diverse pollinator populations in the future.”

The Plan Bee exhibition also features stunning close-up
images of the native dark honey bee.

The Bees Under the Lens display, produced in conjunction with
Falmouth University, features images captured by Senior Technician Glenn Harper
using cutting edge technology in the University of Plymouth’s Electron
Microscopy Centre. He said:

“Images taken on the
electron microscope allow us to see the otherwise hidden wonders of the worlds
around us. They allow us to better understand form and with it, function, and
allows the public a chance to engage with the project. They are also attention
grabbing, and I overheard one child who was visiting the exhibition at the same
time as me simply say ‘wow.”

The Plan Bee exhibition is being staged in Eden’s recently
refurbished Core education centre and also features work by environmentalist
and artist Kurt Jackson, an installation by artist Wolfgang Buttress, and a
series of lightbox artworks by University of Plymouth Fine Art graduate Amy
Shelton.

It will be on show Wednesdays to Sundays until February 18,
and then seven days a week until March 17. Entry is included with Eden
admission, Pass or Membership and for more information go to www.edenproject.com/plan-bee.

Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre

The Plymouth Electron Microscopy Centre offers expert and specialist support to students, researchers, academics and industry. We have a comprehensive range of light microscopes, electron microscopes, imaging processing and analysis software providing support to a range of disciplines within the University, external research organisations and industry clients.